Voice of America

Posted on May 11, 2025 by isajubes in Literature, Journalism, Philosophy, Philanthropy..., Radio Show "Atenea Americana", SHOW ENG // 0 Comments

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Today we talk with Leonardo Bonett, a seasoned journalist who spent an extraordinary 40 years working for Voice of America (VOA), and had just retired this last march 2025.

Voice of America is a government-funded international broadcaster that, for over eight decades, served as one of the most trusted and influential voices in global journalism. Our conversation traces the arc of VOA’s unique role in the world: a broadcaster committed to telling the truth, regardless of political pressure, and a key player in U.S. “soft diplomacy.” With a presence in over 40 languages and listeners spanning the globe, VOA earned its reputation not by pushing propaganda, but by offering fact-based reporting to regions often starved for independent news.

We explore how VOA was born out of the Second World War as a response to Nazi propaganda, pledging from the start to tell the truth — good or bad. That commitment to journalistic integrity became its enduring legacy. Over the decades, VOA’s mission aligned with American ideals of transparency, press freedom, and democratic values, acting as a bridge between cultures and as a platform for voices too often silenced in their own countries.

Our guest brings us his perspectives about VOA, and its uncertain future. We addressed the growing concern over the suspension of VOA’s shortwave broadcasts since mid-March 2025, a move that has left millions of listeners in remote and politically restricted regions without access to uncensored information. While internet access has grown globally, many communities still rely heavily on traditional radio — especially during war, disaster, or internet blackouts. Our guest shares personal insights on the negative consequences of silencing such a far-reaching and respected source, and the uncertainty this creates for the future of global public broadcasting.

As media becomes increasingly fragmented and politicized, the legacy of Voice of America offers valuable lessons. It challenges us to ask: What happens when a trusted voice goes silent? What is lost when soft diplomacy tools are no longer supported? And who will step in to fill that void? Join us in this rich and timely conversation as we honor the past, confront the present, and consider what the future might hold for one of journalism’s most respected institutions.

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